definitive action

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "definitive action" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a decisive or conclusive step taken to address a situation or problem. Example: "The committee decided that a definitive action was necessary to resolve the ongoing issues within the organization."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

46 human-written examples

But widespread, definitive action on sharks has yet to take place.

The Guardian

We should not be halfway committed to justice, prosecutorial discretion and taking definitive action.

The Guardian - Opinion

It was a definitive action to help himself return to the field.

The New York Times - Sports

So, until there is some definitive action from Capitol Hill, here is what you need to do.

The New York Times - Health

An original two-year deadline lapsed, followed by another in June 2001, which also passed with no definitive action.

The New York Times

"They're waiting to see what the Port Authority is going to do before they take any definitive action".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

But in its tight design, fluid combat and generally excellent animation, the new game maintains God of War's role as one of the definitive action-game franchises.

The New York Times - Arts

"This is a long war, and this isn't going to resolve itself with one or two definitive actions," he added.

The New York Times - Sports

But Mr. Fox's government has so far not found the way, said William F. Schultz, executive director of Amnesty International U.S.A. "It is imperative that words translate into definitive actions that produce immediate and tangible results," Mr. Schultz said.

The New York Times

Instead of focusing on the commendable definitive actions that Binghamton University and the SUNY chancellor, Nancy L. Zimpher, have taken to ensure student safety and abolish hazing, your coverage digs up incidents and complaints that are nearly a year old.

The New York Times

Though Rentboy and the escorts who, like me, advertised on it had operated in full view of law enforcement for years (and despite high-profile cases like the murder of John Conway and the outing of anti-gay advocate George Rekers), it wasn't until the site took definitive actions that could actively improve the financial situations of people like me that the government chose to act.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Avoid using "definitive action" when a less forceful or more exploratory approach is being described. Choose a more nuanced term like "exploratory measure" in such cases.

Common error

Be careful not to use "definitive action" when the action taken is only a partial solution or has limited scope. Overstating the impact can undermine your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "definitive action" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in various contexts. It refers to a specific, decisive step taken to address a situation.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Science

23%

Formal & Business

11%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "definitive action" is a commonly used noun phrase that signifies a clear and decisive step taken to address a specific issue. Ludwig AI analysis indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and appropriate for a range of contexts, from news reporting to formal business communications. While alternatives like "decisive measure" or "concrete step" exist, "definitive action" maintains a strong sense of purposefulness and resolution. Ensure the action is clearly defined when using this phrase, and avoid overstating its impact. Top sources employing this term include The New York Times, Huffington Post, and The Guardian.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

decisive measure

Emphasizes the conclusiveness and impact of the action taken.

concrete step

Highlights the tangible and practical nature of the action.

determined effort

Focuses on the resolve and commitment behind the action.

resolute initiative

Implies a firm and proactive approach.

purposeful act

Stresses the intentionality and goal-oriented nature of the action.

conclusive resolution

Highlights the finality and problem-solving aspect of the action.

firm intervention

Suggests a strong and impactful action, often to correct a situation.

vigorous response

Emphasizes the strength and energy behind the reaction.

emphatic move

Highlights the boldness and clarity of the action.

clear course of action

Suggests a well-defined plan and approach.

FAQs

How can I use "definitive action" in a sentence?

You can use "definitive action" to describe a clear and decisive step taken to address a problem or achieve a goal. For example, "The government took "definitive action" to combat the spread of the virus".

What are some alternatives to "definitive action"?

Some alternatives include "decisive measure", "concrete step", or "resolute initiative", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "definitive action" formal or informal?

"Definitive action" is suitable for both formal and neutral contexts. It is frequently used in news reports, business documents, and academic writing.

What does "definitive action" imply?

"Definitive action" implies a strong and unambiguous step that is intended to resolve a situation or achieve a specific outcome. It suggests a clear plan and a firm commitment to achieving the desired result.